EASTHAMPTON — CitySpace is gearing up for a fun filled day on Saturday, Sept. 6, as it will host two different events coinciding with Easthampton City Art’s Art Walk Easthampton.
Each month, CitySpace takes part in Art Walk Easthampton alongside neighbors Big Red Frame and the ECA Gallery, to fill the building with music, art openings, tours and pop-up markets, free and open to all.
“Collaborations, partnerships and the layering of multiple arts events under one roof have proven to enliven Old Town Hall and create a joyful cross-pollination of communities,” said CitySpace President Burns Maxey. “On these first Saturdays, Old Town Hall becomes a lively gathering spot, a place to catch up with friends, meet new people and immerse yourself in the arts.”
Maxey said it’s become an experience where visitors can catch live music, view new exhibitions, and maybe even leave with a unique memento. She added that the event has become popular due to its community celebration of creativity that boosts city festivities while showcasing the wide-ranging artistic spirit nurtured at CitySpace.
CitySpace Bluegrass will return on Sept. 6 from 4-7 p.m., once again bringing the community together through live acoustic music, open doors and shared creativity. Musicians and music lovers are invited to join the monthly gathering that began earlier this year and has quickly become a hub for Easthampton’s bluegrass and folk scene.
“CitySpace Bluegrass has really struck a chord since we kicked it off in January. From the start, people have been coming from all over the region and beyond, some to play, others just to listen and soak in the music,” said Maxey. “What’s been wonderful is the mix. We see familiar faces every month, but also new folks who wander in and join the circle. More and more beginners of all ages are picking up their instruments and jumping in, which has added so much energy.”
Maxey added that a big part of the event’s success is thanks to its host, David Carrol Clark.
“He creates such a welcoming atmosphere, even offering time before the jam for beginners to get comfortable and ask questions,” said Maxey. “It’s become clear that CitySpace Bluegrass isn’t just about the music, it’s about building community and making everyone feel like they have a place in the circle. Listeners can join in as well by toe tapping and maybe singing a line or two.”
CitySpace is also hosting its Tiny Pop-Up Market during the day, a curated marketplace of local artists and makers set up throughout Old Town Hall. Visitors can explore handmade ceramics, jewelry, prints, textiles, body care products and more, supporting small, independent creatives while enjoying an evening of music, art and community.
“The Tiny Pop-Up Market is a way for CitySpace to create a landing spot for makers of all kinds from across the 413 to share their work and connect directly with the community,” said Maxey. “During Art Walk, several hundred people can pass through Old Town Hall, and the market gives local artists and makers a welcoming place to showcase their craft and meet new audiences, and be part of the energy of the evening.”
Maxey added that with vendors rotating each month, there’s always something fresh to discover, adding to the artistic vibrancy of the space and making every visit a little different. Among September’s featured pop-up vendors are ceramic and jeweler The Science of Living, Nitay Luxe offering handcrafted self-care items, Mill River Marginalized Artists Collective, and multidisciplinary artist Captain Debbie.
The evening also includes gallery openings in Easthampton City Arts and Elusie Galleries. Featured at the Big Red Frame and Elusie Gallery will be an exhibit “Conversations with Water” from Amanda Barrow. At the Easthampton City Arts Gallery, Cathy Durso’s “What sparkles beneath my feet” exhibit will also begin its showings.
In addition to live music, art and shopping, guided tours of Old Town Hall will be available during the evening, offering visitors a chance to explore the building’s historic spaces and learn more about CitySpace’s ongoing restoration efforts.
Maxey credited the synergy of these events coming together to CitySpace Program and Venue Manager Zoe Feldman, who organizes both events being featured on Sept. 6.
“Zoe’s collaborative effort with Jean Pierre Pasche at Big Red Frame and Pasqualina Azzarello of the ECA Gallery, and CitySpace board members, they turn Old Town Hall into bustling artistic celebration,” said Maxey.
Maxey went on to say that whether attendees come to pick, sing, browse or simply take in the atmosphere, there’s a place for all at CitySpace.
“CitySpace Bluegrass has always been about connection, musicians and neighbors coming together in a historic building that continues to be a gathering place for creativity. Pairing it with the Tiny Pop-Up Market, exhibitions and tours makes for a truly rich community experience in Old Town Hall,” said Maxey.
